Primary Data

This is data that is collected specifically for the purpose of the current research and which data cannot be possibly found in secondary data.

A researcher’s starting point is secondary data such that if it is sufficient to fulfill the information required to making decision(s) or solve a problem, then there will be no need for primary data.

Therefore, primary data is collected only to fill in the gap occasioned by inadequate secondary data for decision-making or for problem-solving.

7.3.1 Data Primary Collecting

What is the purpose of collecting primary data? There are various reasons why

primary data is collected some of which are discussed in section 6.1.1 above.

Primary data is collected to be used for the first time and is meant specifically for the research at hand (for the current use or problem a researcher wishes to solve).

It involves conducting the study according to the designed procedure (manipulating the experimental variables in the case of an experimental method), administering instruments for measuring variables and/or gathering information through observation.

It also involves tabulating the data collected for the purpose of analysis to achieve the research objectives and answer the research questions (or test the research hypotheses) generated by the same researcher at a present time.

7.3.2 Research Methods/Instruments

Let us consider how primary data is collected. How do researchers collect primary

data? There are various instruments used, some of which we discuss below.

Research instruments are the tools and/or techniques that would be used to collect the desired data. This data is raw from the field. It is the one referred to as primary data. Data can be collected through various methods which include:

Interview Surveys- questionnaire, telephone interviews, internet interviews, focus group interviews, etc).

Primary data can be collected either through experiment or through survey. If the researcher conducts an experiment, he observes some quantitative measurements, or the data, with the help of which he examines the truth contained in his hypothesis. But in the case of a survey, data can be collected by any one or more of the following ways:

7.3.2.1 Collecting Data by Observation

This method implies the collection of information by way of investigator’s own observation, without interviewing the respondents. The information obtained relates to what is currently happening and is not complicated by either the past behaviour or future intentions or attitudes of respondents.

What is the main disadvantage for this method? This method is no doubt an expensive

method and the information provided by this method is also very limited. As such this method is not suitable in inquiries where large samples are concerned.

7.3.2.2 Collecting Data through Personal Interview

The investigator follows a rigid procedure and seeks answers to a set of pre-conceived questions through personal interviews. This method of collecting data is usually carried out in a structured way where output depends upon the ability of the interviewer to a large extent.

One main disadvantage of this method is that it is too taxing therefore time consuming. Sometimes the interviewees would demand for compensation before any responses are given.

7.3.2.3 Collecting Data through Telephone Interviews

This method of collecting information involves contacting the respondents on telephone itself. This is not a very widely used method but it plays an important role in industrial surveys in developed regions, particularly, when the survey has to be accomplished in a very limited time.

7.3.2.4 Data Collection Using Mail Questionnaires

The researcher and the respondents do come in contact with each other if this method of survey is adopted. Questionnaires are mailed to the respondents with a request to return after completing the same. It is the most extensively used method in various economic and business surveys.

Before applying this method, usually a Pilot Study for testing the questionnaire is conduced. The aim is to reveal the weaknesses, if any, of the questionnaire. The researcher must prepare questionnaire carefully in order that it collects the data it is expected to collect in an effective and efficient manner in collecting the relevant information.

7.3.2.5 Data Collection through Interview Schedules

Under this method the enumerators are appointed and given training. They are provided with schedules containing relevant questions. These enumerators go to respondents with these schedules.

Data are collected by filling up the schedules by enumerators on the basis of replies given by respondents. Much depends upon the capability of enumerators so far as this method is concerned. Occasional field checks on the work of the enumerators may ensure sincere work.

7.3.3 Considerations for a Researcher Make before Using Interviews to Collect Data

A researcher must consider the desired degree of accuracy, availability of time for the research, the objective and extent of the research and the financial implications of the research before choosing the “right” methods of collecting the data taking.

The above discussion has focus much on primary data collection. Please take note that primary data is collected only if the secondary data is not available or is insufficient to solve the current problem or to make decisions on the issue at hand. Below we discuss secondary data, with emphasis laid on the types of and the relevance sources of the secondary data.